In collaboration with physicians, nurse director, nurse manager, and … The exam is 150 questions and you must answer 97 questions correctly to receive your certification. Orthopedic nurses required high-level nursing skills to perform their job duties. •Joint replacement Orthopedic nurses assist and educate those with orthopedic conditions and complications. •Change bed pans The specific job duties for an orthopedic nurse can vary by experience and other factors, but common responsibilities include: •Administer pain medications •Osteoporosis. Finally, you will apply to the Board of Nursing in your state to become an RN, LPN or LVN. Understand medication dosage, complications, contraindications, and interactions. Orthopedic nursing is a specialty that focuses on musculoskeletal diseases and disorders. The orthopedic nurse performs musculoskeletal health exams, assists with casting and traction, and administers pain medication. As predicted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career outlook for Registered Nurses is an increase of 19% in the coming 10 years. The majority of data we provide on this website come from the following sources: Copyright 2012-2020 Nursing Explorer. Orthopedic nurses treat patients with conditions of the musculoskeletal system and work with doctors on a daily basis to treat and manage these disorders. Orthopedic nurses are familiar with traction, casting, mobility devices, and pain management. You must also pass an exam certifying yourself as an orthopedic nurse. Monitor client vital signs. An orthopedic nurse is an excellent educator that gives patients extensive, comprehensive information. The description of job duties depends on your facility, your patient population, and where you live. Because of its nature, orthopedic nursing is a specialized field, as it focuses on the treatment of muscular skeletal diseases and disorders. When musculoskeletal conditions require surgery, orthopedic nurses assist physicians with preparation for the procedure and assists patients with their postoperative recovery. Due to a growing section of the population who is aging, the need for orthopedic nurses should continue to rise, so that care is available for older adults who are at a greater risk for musculoskeletal issues. Caring for orthopedic patients requires working with physical … A minimum of 1000 clinical practice hours as an RN in orthopedic nursing practice in the last three years. •Inform doctors of changes in the conditions of patients •Genetic Malformations Orthopedic nurse works closely with the patient, their family, and the orthopedic team to ensure clear client education, a smooth recovery, and minimal complications. It is possible that job applicants for an orthopedic nurse position may not know every duty expected of them until they start their new job. Orthopedic nurses care for patients in hospitals and other settings. Education is the most important aspect of being an orthopedic nurse to promote patient health, prevent disease, encourage patient understanding of troubling symptoms, and promote compliance with ongoing treatments. Salaries for orthopedic nurses vary related to the type of nursing licensure you obtain (LPN, ADN or BSN), your job description, your length of nursing experience, and your geographical location. In order to become an orthopedic nurse, you must obtain a nursing degree from an accredited nursing program. Search nursing programs by distance from your location. Some orthopedic nurses may even work in the operating room. An orthopedic nurse will also educate patients and their families about home care for a range of conditions and provide emotional support. Monitor client vital signs. Orthopedic nursing services are growing as the population grows older and requires additional orthopedic surgery and care for issues like hip replacements and arthritis that plague the elderly population. Two years experience as a Registered Nurse. Some orthopedic nurses may assume a leadership role, supervising nursing assistants and other nursing staff. Orthopedic nurses work a variety of shifts dependent on their employment facility. Orthopedic nurses provide an imperative role to patients during a time where they advocacy, encouragement, and education. A Registered Nurse can attend an Associate Degree program (two years) or pursues a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (four years). The basic duties of an orthopedic nurse are described below. The demand for registered nurses is increasing at a faster than average rate. •Bone fracture Orthopedic nurses may assist with surgeries and recovery to help patients regain strength, mobility and range of motion in their affected joints. 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